River Trips: Colorado River, Grand Canyon, Arizona

Rafting the Grand Canyon. (Justin Bailie)

WHEN: June 1–August 20

The Grand has unreal views and Class IV rapids and gets you away from it all for more than three weeks. Permits are tough, but your odds go up each time you apply and when you apply for the off-season. Go with OARS ($2,271). DIY: Rent everything from Flagstaff’s Pro River ($265 per five days).

River Trips: John Day River, Oregon

(Charlie Borland)

WHEN:May 20-July 10

This five-day float takes you through 71 miles of northern Oregon’s rugged desert canyons on mostly Class II water. Plus, the permits are free, and you get some of the country’s best smallmouth bass fishing along the way. Ouzel Outfitters in Bend does guided trips ($850), or they'll set you up with the required gear ($400).

River Trips: Middle Fork of the Salmon, Idaho

Rafting the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, ID. (Justin Bailie)

WHEN: May 28–September 3

No other weeklong trip offers this level of whitewater (Class III–IV) coupled with absurdly great trout fishing. Permits are first come, first served in the off-season; in the peak season, it’s a 1-in-25 chance. OARS runs six-day trips ($2,297), or hit up Blackadar Boating (from $575 for five days) to get outfitted for your own trip.

River Trips: French Broad River, North Carolina and Tennessee

(Jeff Rich )

WHEN:June 1-August 31

The third-oldest river in the world passes through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and has plenty of flat stretches to sit back and relax. There are no permits, but reserve your campsite ahead of time ($7 per person). If you're up for the DIY approach, check out Hot Springs–based Huck Finn Rafting (from $50 per person per day).

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